Joseph Lewis Baczynski

Joseph "Sonny" Baczynski, a man of admirable spirit and enviable energy, passed away at the sprightly age of 84 on October 25, 2024 in Goodyear, Arizona. Joe, a born and bred Natrona Heights original, known to his friends as Joe "Birdman" Baczynski, and Har-Brack High's School Mascot, took his final bow on the world's stage to a standing ovation of friends, family and those lucky enough to have crossed his path.
Joe was known as Mr. B on Mauna Loa, and Grandpa Joe on Robin Lane. You could count on Joe at all times to be there to lend a hand, but also for an afternoon filled with laughter and stories. He was the intelligent conversationalist who could convince you to see it his way, but then have a jovial discussion about fantasy football and how the Steelers are the best. Most of all, he was spirited, a man who approached life the way he approached a brisk run: as if a marathon was meant to be finished, no matter the odds.
Joe always knew timing was everything. Born on December 18, 1939, he enjoyed a life that spanned momentous epochs yet always seemed to circle back to the importance of family, friends and a good time. Joe was the beloved ringleader of the Baczynski clan, a devoted husband to Barbara, his partner in crime and the love of his life. He was the larger-than-life father to daughter Cynthia Baczynski-Martin, whose hand he probably thought he was just loaning to Johnny Martin, his loyal son-in-law. Joe's legacy includes his grandkids, Josh and Ivanna Head, Derrick Head, Emily Head, and Ashley and Nick Tozzi. He was an over-the-moon grandfather. Great Grandkids Tatum and Tobias Head and Scarlett Tozzi knew how to melt this gentle giants heart. Sisters Maryann Ruiz and Irene Kemper, tried to keep their brother in line, but soon realized that was an impossible task.
Joe served as a proud veteran of the Navy, showing the same dedication and commitment he would later bring to his role as an executive at Allied Signal. His work colleagues would attest that Joe was not just a boss, but a mentor, confidant, and the unofficial comedian whose material never ran short.
Not one to sit still, Joe channeled his energies into a host of pursuits that would leave most mortals gasping for air. He completed marathons - yes - multiple, and was a recognized force on the ping pong circuit, no doubt battling each opponent with a grin and a merciless backhand. When it came to sports, Joe just didn't partake; he officiated football, swung bats at softballs, and even donned skates for hockey games. Basketball was the most beneficial from his tall tales and taller layups.
The Hawg Hunters knew him as the guy who could tell a fish tale so tall, you'd need a satellite to get the full picture. Let's not forget the White Water River Rafting trip, even the river couldn't keep a straight face around Joe. In the quiet of his workshop, his woodworking skills were as sharp as his wit, crafting creations that were both grand and handsome, just like the man himself.
In the end, Joe leaves behind a legacy that includes his daughter who will miss her dad's impromptu comedy during family time. But knowing she will hold true to all his beliefs, values, and electric personality, which was her dad's master lesson in living fully, loving deeply, and laughing often.
As we say our final goodbyes to Joseph Baczynski, let's remember him not with a moment of silence but with a round of applause. For in the theater of life, Joe was the star who made every role he played memorable, every moment worth savoring, and every punchline land with grace. Curtain down, laughter rolling, Joe take your bow. You may have left the building, but your memories will echo in our hearts forever.